Why and How to Meet With Elected Officials

Description

This class equips business owners with a practical framework for meeting effectively with elected officials and their staff. It explains why engagement matters, how to prepare, what to discuss, and how to avoid common mistakes. Participants will learn the distinction between advocacy and regulated lobbying, how to stay within appropriate boundaries, and how to build long-term relationships that create visibility, credibility, and policy influence for their businesses and communities. What You Will Learn: • How to prepare for and structure a productive meeting with an elected official or staffer. • The difference between advocacy and lobbying and how to stay in the safe zone. • How to follow up and build ongoing relationships that support grants, SBIR/STTR efforts, and long-term policy engagement. Presenter: Chris Petrella, Business Consultant, SC SBDC